Bharat Forge has made headlines by securing a monumental domestic contract with the Ministry of Defence for 184 cutting-edge Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS). This significant order constitutes a remarkable 60% of the total ₹6,900 crore procurement budget allocated by the defense ministry, marking a pivotal moment for India’s defense manufacturing landscape.
A Collaborative Triumph in Defense Technology
The 155/52 mm caliber ATAGS represents a successful collaboration between Bharat Forge and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Baba Kalyani, the Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Forge, expressed his pride in this achievement, crediting the support from the Ministry of Defence, the Indian Army, and the dedicated teams at DRDO and Bharat Forge. This partnership underscores the commitment to indigenously developed defense solutions.
- Key Highlights of the ATAGS:
- Developed in partnership with DRDO
- Capable of firing projectiles up to 48 km
- Operates on all-electric drives for minimal maintenance
- Speed of 18 km/h, significantly faster than traditional towed guns
- Impressive firing rate of six shells compared to three for conventional systems
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing Facility
Bharat Forge has established an extensive defense manufacturing facility in Jejuri, close to Pune, specifically designed for the assembly and integration of a variety of defense systems, including guns, vehicles, and small arms. This advanced facility is capable of producing one artillery gun daily, showcasing Bharat Forge’s commitment to boosting India’s defense capabilities.
Strategic Deployment and Export Potential
These sophisticated artillery systems are poised to replace older models and are expected to be strategically deployed along the borders with China and Pakistan. The ATAGS is designed to accommodate existing ammunition types without requiring any modifications, enhancing its operational efficiency.
Additionally, Bharat Forge is already taking steps to export these advanced guns to allied nations, such as Armenia. The execution of these defense orders will be managed through Bharat Forge’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Kalyani Strategic Systems, further solidifying India’s position in the global defense market.
This landmark contract not only highlights Bharat Forge’s capabilities but also reflects a broader trend of self-reliance in India’s defense sector, paving the way for future advancements and collaborations in military technology.
